Michael Dunlop Highly Sought After For 2016 Season
- Sep 22, 2015
- 2 min read
Michael Dunlop is reportedly in very high demand for the 2016 road racing season, despite a difficult year that saw the Northern Irishman split from the Milwaukee Yamaha team at the TT and fail to win a race at an International event.
The eleven time TT winner has, according to Bennetts.co.uk, been linked with a move back to the Honda team, the team that Dunlop left after just one season in 2013 despite wins in the opening Superbike, both Supersport and Superstock races.
He would be partnered alongside 23-time TT winner John McGuinness and Manxman Conor Cummins, a team that would boast 34 TT victories.
Dunlop has also been offered a renewal with the Buildbase BMW squad with whom he joined following his divorce from Yamaha. An injury as a result of a crash in the opening Superbike race of this year's TT meant Michael was unable to let his and the bike's true potential shine through. His success in 2014 on the S1000RR may entice him to stay where he is. If he does stay with Buildbase then he will be offered several BSB outings next year.
Buildbase aren't the only BMW-backed team interested in the Ballymoney rider. Tyco/TAS racing have expressed interest in Michael to, ironically, replace his brother William. But Dunlop has stated that he isn't interested in joining the team.
Smiths Racing have also expressed interest, with BMW machinery most likely to be used in 'big bike' races. The team have also been successful with Triumph 675s in the Supersport class, winning in 2014 on their first visit. Guy Martin felt that there was more to come from the bike following his 3rd place in the second Supersport race this year, so having both he and Dunlop on that package would be very strong for the team indeed.
PBM Kawasaki have also made a play for Michael to return to the team he rode for back in 2011. The Kawasaki proved a very strong package this year in the hands of Ian Hutchinson, and team owner Paul Bird is keen to bring home even more success. Having both Hutchy and Dunlop on a ZX-10R would make for a formidable force.
Wherever Michael ends up next season, you can be sure that he'll be the man to beat.
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